What was Genie Chance primarily known for during her lifetime?

Genie Chance was an American journalist, radio broadcaster, and Alaska state politician. She was most notably recognized for her extensive coverage of the devastating 1964 Alaska earthquake, which earned her numerous journalism awards, and for her significant contributions to Alaska's legislative landscape.

What was Genie Chance's birth name and when was she born?

Genie Chance was born Emma Gene 'Genie' Broadfoot on January 24, 1927. Her birth name reflects her family origins before her marriage.

When and where did Genie Chance pass away?

Genie Chance passed away on May 17, 1998, at the age of 71, in Juneau, Alaska. Her death was attributed to dementia.

What were Genie Chance's main professional roles?

Genie Chance held several prominent professional roles throughout her career, including journalist, radio broadcaster, and politician. These diverse roles highlight her impact in both media and public service.

Where was Genie Chance born?

Genie Chance was born in Dallas County, Texas. This is where her early life began before she eventually moved to Alaska.

What was Genie Chance's educational background?

Genie Chance graduated from North Texas State Teachers College, now known as the University of North Texas, in 1946 with a degree in Speech. She also pursued graduate studies at Baylor University, further enhancing her academic qualifications.

What subjects did Genie Chance teach at North Texas State University?

From 1946 to 1949, Genie Chance served as an instructor at North Texas State University, where she taught a variety of subjects including speech, radio, English, and government. This demonstrates her broad academic and communication expertise.

When did Genie Chance move to Alaska, and to which city?

Genie Chance moved from Texas to Anchorage, Alaska, in 1959 when she was 32 years old. This move marked a significant transition in her life and career.

What was Genie Chance's initial role in broadcast news in Alaska?

After moving to Anchorage in 1959, Genie Chance began her broadcast career as an editorialist and journalist, working first at KENI radio and television, and later at KFQD radio. She was recognized as one of the first women to work in Alaskan broadcast news.

How did Genie Chance gain national recognition in her broadcast career?

Genie Chance gained national recognition for her calm and measured broadcasting during the catastrophic 9.2 magnitude 1964 Alaska earthquake. Her ability to provide critical information and reassurance during a major disaster brought her widespread acclaim.

What was the magnitude of the Alaska earthquake that Genie Chance covered?

The Alaska earthquake that Genie Chance famously covered was of 9.2 magnitude. This was a highly powerful earthquake, causing widespread damage and requiring extensive emergency response.

Where did Genie Chance broadcast from immediately after the 1964 Alaska earthquake?

Immediately after the 1964 Alaska earthquake, Genie Chance made her way to a temporary post located in the Alaska Public Safety Building, from where she began broadcasting vital information to the affected community.

What specific actions did Genie Chance take during her earthquake broadcasts to assist the community?

During her earthquake broadcasts, Genie Chance disseminated information about catastrophic damage, shared messages from families searching for loved ones, urged grocers to open their stores while cautioning against hoarding, and provided instructions for purifying snow for drinking water. She also relayed requests from the local hospital for supplies and pleas from community leaders for electricians and plumbers, effectively coordinating response efforts.

How did Anchorage police chief John Flanigan recognize Genie Chance's role during the earthquake crisis?

Anchorage police chief John Flanigan essentially designated Genie Chance as the public information officer during the earthquake crisis. This recognition underscored her critical role in communicating vital information to the public.

What was Genie Chance's personal motivation for maintaining a calm demeanor during the earthquake coverage?

Genie Chance later stated that her dedication and calm demeanor during the earthquake coverage were partly driven by her responsibility to reassure people that the world had not come to an end. Her steady presence helped to mitigate panic and provide a sense of stability during a chaotic time.

What awards did Genie Chance receive for her coverage of the 1964 Alaska earthquake?

For her exceptional coverage of the 1964 Alaska earthquake, Genie Chance received numerous accolades, including national recognition with the McCall's Golden Mike Award and several top awards from the Alaska Press Club.

What professional organization was Genie Chance a member of, and what role did she hold?

Genie Chance was a member of the Alaska Press Women, an organization later renamed Alaska Professional Communicators. She served as the president of this organization in 1967.

Why did Genie Chance leave KENI radio, and what did she do afterward?

Genie Chance left KENI radio after her request for a raise was denied, with management stating she was already being paid the maximum salary for a woman in her position. Following this, she established her own public relations firm.

When was Genie Chance first elected to the Alaska House of Representatives, and for how many terms did she serve?

Genie Chance was first elected to the Alaska House of Representatives in 1968 and served for three consecutive terms, from 1969 to 1975. This marked the beginning of her significant political career.

How did redistricting affect Anchorage's legislative representation during Genie Chance's time in the House?

During Genie Chance's tenure in the Alaska House of Representatives, two successive redistricting plans, drafted by the Alaska Supreme Court, transformed Anchorage's legislative delegation. It shifted from a single district encompassing the entire city to six distinct districts by 1974.

When did Genie Chance run for the Alaska Senate, and which district did she represent?

In 1974, Genie Chance ran for the Alaska Senate for a two-year short term. She represented the new two-member District E, which was centered on downtown Anchorage and its surrounding neighborhoods.

What was a key focus of Genie Chance's legislative work?

As a legislator, Genie Chance was known for introducing and sponsoring progressive legislation, with a particular focus on education and women's issues. Her work aimed to advance social and educational policies in Alaska.

What significant bill did Genie Chance support before the national legalization of abortion?

Before the national legalization of abortion under Roe v. Wade in 1973, Genie Chance was the primary supporter of a 1970 bill aimed at decriminalizing abortion in Alaska. This demonstrates her early advocacy for women's reproductive rights.

What were some of Genie Chance's other major legislative achievements?

Among Genie Chance's other significant legislative achievements were spearheading the establishment of a statewide university system and a statewide telecommunications system in Alaska. These initiatives aimed to improve infrastructure and access to education and communication across the state.

What national advisory committee was Genie Chance appointed to, and for what period?

Genie Chance was appointed by the United States Secretary of Defense to serve on the Defense Department Advisory Committee on Women in Military Service. She held this position from 1967 to 1970, contributing to national policy regarding women in the armed forces.

Who was Genie Chance's first husband, and when did they marry?

Genie Chance's first husband was Winston Cash Chance. They met in her small Texas hometown and were married on August 15, 1947, in Denton, Texas.

How many children did Genie Chance have with her first husband?

Genie Chance and her first husband, Winston Cash Chance, had three children together: two sons named Albert and Winston Jr., and a daughter named Jan.

What were the financial circumstances that led Genie Chance to seek employment in Alaska?

Genie Chance's first husband, Winston, was a struggling used car salesman, and their financial difficulties placed a heavy burden on their marriage. When Winston moved the family to Alaska in 1959, convinced it was a land of opportunity, Genie felt compelled to contribute financially when he was unable to pay their rent, leading her to seek employment.

How did Winston Chance's attitude towards Genie's career change over time?

Initially, Winston Chance was supportive of Genie's work as a reporter and proud of her achievements. However, his resentment grew as his wife's success increased, particularly after the earthquake, which contributed to the deterioration of their marriage.

What ultimately led to Genie Chance's divorce from Winston Cash Chance?

Winston Cash Chance had been an abusive husband for years, with his behavior often triggered by alcohol. His abuse worsened as his resentment of Genie's growing success after the earthquake intensified, ultimately leading to their divorce.

Who was Genie Chance's second husband, and what was his political background?

Genie Chance's second husband was William K. Boardman, who had previously served as the Speaker of the Alaska House of Representatives from 1968 to 1969. They had served together in the Alaska House.

When did Genie Chance marry William K. Boardman?

Genie Chance married William K. Boardman on September 23, 1971. This marriage occurred after her divorce from her first husband.

What was notable about the political affiliations of Genie Chance and William K. Boardman?

It was notable that Genie Chance, a prominent member of the Democratic Party in Alaska, married William K. Boardman, who was a Republican. Their marriage transcended typical political divides.

When and where did Genie Chance and William K. Boardman move?

Genie Chance and William K. Boardman moved to Juneau, Alaska, in 1986. Even after this move, Chance remained actively involved in her political endeavors.

How long did Genie Chance remain married to William K. Boardman?

Genie Chance remained married to William K. Boardman until his death in 1993. Their marriage lasted for over two decades.

What was Genie Chance working on before her death?

Before her death, Genie Chance had been actively gathering materials with the intention of writing her autobiography. Unfortunately, she succumbed to dementia before she could complete it.

Where are Genie Chance's legislative papers and files housed?

Genie Chance's legislative papers and files, covering the years between 1969 and 1976, are preserved and housed with the Archives and Special Collections at the UAA/APU Consortium Library. These documents provide valuable insight into her political career.

What types of policy documents are included in Genie Chance's legislative archives?

Genie Chance's legislative archives at the UAA/APU Consortium Library include subject files on important policies from her time as a legislator. These cover topics such as abortion, the Atomic Energy Commission, education, health and welfare, petroleum development, Alaska Children's Services, and FCC Regulation.

Who created a spoken-word performance about Genie Chance, and what was its focus?

Author Jon Mooallem created a spoken-word performance about Genie Chance in 2016 and 2017, presented as part of Radiotopia Live. The performance focused on Chance's significant contributions and role in helping the community recover after the 1964 Alaska earthquake.

Which podcast featured an edited version of Jon Mooallem's performance about Genie Chance?

The podcast '99 Percent Invisible' recorded a performance by Jon Mooallem about Genie Chance and aired an edited version during one of their programs, bringing her story to a wider audience.

What is the title of the book that expanded on Jon Mooallem's performance about Genie Chance?

The book that expanded on Jon Mooallem's spoken-word performance about Genie Chance is titled 'This is Chance!'. It delves deeper into her pivotal role in the community's recovery following the 1964 Alaska earthquake.

When was Jon Mooallem's book 'This is Chance!' released?

Jon Mooallem's book 'This is Chance!' was released on March 24, 2020. The book further explores Genie Chance's critical actions and leadership during the aftermath of the 1964 Alaska earthquake.

Genie Chance Wiki: The Unwavering Voice: Genie Chance's Enduring Impact on Alaskan Society

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Who Was Genie Chance?

A Multifaceted Pioneer

Emma Gene "Genie" Broadfoot Chance (1927–1998) was a remarkable American figure, distinguished as a journalist, radio broadcaster, and influential Alaska state politician. Her career was marked by a profound commitment to public service and an unwavering spirit, particularly evident during moments of crisis and in her advocacy for progressive social change.

The Voice of Calm Amidst Chaos

Chance gained national recognition for her extraordinary and composed broadcasting during the devastating 1964 Alaska earthquake. Her calm demeanor and effective communication during this catastrophic event earned her numerous journalism accolades, solidifying her place in Alaskan history as a beacon of resilience and public information.

A Legislative Trailblazer

Beyond her journalistic achievements, Genie Chance made significant contributions to Alaskan legislation. Her tenure in both the Alaska House of Representatives and the Alaska Senate was characterized by a dedication to advancing education and women's issues, leaving an indelible mark on the state's social and political landscape.

Early Life & Formative Years

Roots in Texas

Born Emma Gene Broadfoot on January 24, 1927, in Dallas County, Texas, Genie Chance hailed from a family with a strong background in public service. Her father, Albert Sidney Broadfoot, was a former Texas state representative and Sixth District Judge, while her mother was Jessie Butler Broadfoot. She grew up with a brother, Lt. Albert S. Broadfoot Jr., and two sisters, Jessie Butler Broadfoot Garrett and Alice Virginia Broadfoot Freeman.

Academic Pursuits

Chance pursued higher education with dedication, graduating from North Texas State Teachers College (now the University of North Texas) in 1946 with a degree in Speech. She furthered her academic journey with graduate studies at Baylor University. Her intellectual curiosity and commitment to learning were evident early on, as she subsequently served as an instructor at North Texas State University from 1946 to 1949, teaching subjects such as speech, radio, English, and government.

A New Frontier: Alaska

In 1959, at the age of 32, Genie Chance made a pivotal decision to relocate from Texas to Anchorage, Alaska. This move marked the beginning of a new chapter in her life, one that would see her rise to prominence in both media and politics in the Last Frontier.

A Career in Broadcasting

Pioneering Alaskan News

Upon her arrival in Anchorage in 1959, Genie Chance quickly established herself in the burgeoning Alaskan media landscape. She worked as an editorialist and journalist, initially at KENI radio and television, and later at KFQD radio. In an era when women in broadcast news were rare, Chance became one of the first female voices in Alaskan media, breaking barriers and setting new standards.

The 1964 Earthquake: A Defining Moment

Genie Chance's career reached its zenith during the catastrophic 9.2 magnitude 1964 Alaska earthquake. In the immediate aftermath of the tremor, she courageously made her way to a makeshift broadcasting post in the Alaska Public Safety Building. For nearly 24 continuous hours, she served as an unofficial public information officer, coordinating emergency responses and providing vital information to a terrified and disoriented populace.

Her broadcasts were a lifeline, disseminating critical information such as:

Updates on catastrophic damage across Anchorage.
Messages from family members desperately searching for loved ones.
Urgent calls for grocers to open their stores, coupled with warnings against hoarding.
Instructions for purifying snow to obtain drinking water.
Requests from the local hospital for essential supplies.
Pleas from community leaders for skilled electricians and plumbers.

Her calm and measured delivery was instrumental in reassuring the community, preventing widespread panic, and facilitating organized recovery efforts. She later reflected that her dedication stemmed from a profound responsibility to convey that "the world had not come to an end."

Recognition and Transition

Her exceptional coverage of the earthquake garnered numerous accolades, including the prestigious McCall's Golden Mike Award and several top honors from the Alaska Press Club. A prominent member and president (1967) of the Alaska Press Women (later Alaska Professional Communicators), Chance was a recognized leader in her field. However, her pioneering spirit also encountered gender-based professional limitations. When her request for a raise at KENI radio was denied on the grounds that she was already receiving the maximum salary for a woman in her position, she promptly resigned and established her own public relations firm, demonstrating her resolve and entrepreneurial drive.

A Distinguished Political Career

From Broadcast to Legislature

Genie Chance transitioned from journalism to politics, successfully being elected to the Alaska House of Representatives in 1968. She served three consecutive terms, from 1969 to 1975, representing the 7th district and later the 8th district following redistricting. Her political journey continued when she ran for the Alaska Senate in 1974, securing a two-year short term from the newly formed two-member District E, which encompassed downtown Anchorage and its surrounding neighborhoods.

Championing Progressive Legislation

As a legislator, Chance was a fervent advocate for progressive policies, particularly in the realms of education and women's issues. Her most notable legislative achievement was her instrumental role as the primary supporter of the 1970 bill to decriminalize abortion in Alaska, a landmark decision that predated the national legalization under Roe v. Wade in 1973. This demonstrated her foresight and commitment to reproductive rights.

Beyond her work on women's issues, Chance also spearheaded the establishment of:

A comprehensive statewide university system for Alaska.
A robust statewide telecommunications system, crucial for connecting the vast and often remote communities of Alaska.

Her leadership extended to serving as Vice Chairman and later Chairman of the House Health Education and Social Services Committee. Furthermore, her expertise was recognized at a national level when she was appointed by the U.S. Secretary of Defense to serve on the Defense Department Advisory Committee on Women in Military Service from 1967 to 1970, highlighting her influence on broader policy discussions.

Personal Life & Relationships

First Marriage and Challenges

Genie Chance married Winston Cash Chance on August 15, 1947, in Denton, Texas, the small town where she grew up. Together, they had three children: two sons, Albert and Winston Jr., and a daughter, Jan. Their early years were marked by financial struggles, largely due to Winston's difficulties as a used car salesman. This economic strain placed a significant burden on their marriage, particularly on Genie, who felt a strong urge to contribute financially.

Her decision to seek employment as a reporter at KENI radio, with Winston's initial agreement, was driven by necessity. While Winston was initially supportive and proud of her achievements, his resentment grew with her increasing success, especially after the earthquake. This, coupled with his alcohol-triggered abusive behavior, ultimately led to their divorce in 1971.

Second Marriage and Later Years

On September 23, 1971, Genie Chance married William K. Boardman, a former Speaker of the House (1968–69) with whom she had served in the Alaska House of Representatives. Their union was notable for its bipartisan nature, as Chance was a prominent Democrat while Boardman was a Republican. This demonstrated a personal ability to bridge political divides.

In 1986, the couple moved to Juneau, Alaska, where Chance continued to engage in her political endeavors. She remained married to Boardman until his passing in 1993. In her later years, Chance had begun compiling materials for an autobiography, a testament to her rich and impactful life. However, she succumbed to dementia and passed away on May 17, 1998, at the age of 71, in Juneau, Alaska, leaving behind a profound legacy.

Legacy & Enduring Influence

Archival Preservation

The significant contributions of Genie Chance are meticulously preserved in her legislative papers and files, spanning the years between 1969 and 1976. These invaluable documents are housed within the Archives and Special Collections at the UAA/APU Consortium Library. The collection offers a comprehensive insight into her legislative priorities and the political landscape of her era, including subject files on critical policies such as abortion, the Atomic Energy Commission, education, health and welfare, petroleum development, Alaska Children's Services, and FCC Regulation.

A Story Retold

Genie Chance's remarkable story has resonated through contemporary media, ensuring her legacy continues to inspire. In 2016 and 2017, she was the central figure of a compelling spoken-word performance by author Jon Mooallem, presented as part of Radiotopia Live. This performance, which included musical accompaniment, vividly recounted her pivotal contributions during the 1964 earthquake.

The popular podcast 99 Percent Invisible recorded and aired an edited version of this performance, bringing her story to a wider audience. Mooallem further expanded his research and narrative into a critically acclaimed book, This is Chance!, released on March 24, 2020. The book delves deeply into Chance's extraordinary role in guiding the community through the aftermath of the earthquake, cementing her place as a figure of immense historical importance and resilience.

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References

Denton County Clerk's Office; Denton, Texas; Denton County Marriage Records; Volumes: 00022; Pages: 00135

Washington State Archives; Olympia, Washington; Washington Marriage Records, 1854-2013; Reference Number: kingcoarchmc359673

A full list of references for this article are available at the Genie Chance Wikipedia page

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This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website regarding historical events, political careers, or personal matters is for academic study and general knowledge. It is not a substitute for consulting primary historical sources, academic research, or professional guidance in fields such as journalism, political science, or social history. Always refer to original documentation and scholarly works for in-depth analysis and verification.

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The Unwavering Voice

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Who Was Genie Chance? 🌟

👤 A Multifaceted Pioneer

🎙️ The Voice of Calm Amidst Chaos

🏛️ A Legislative Trailblazer

Early Life & Formative Years 🌱

🏡 Roots in Texas

🎓 Academic Pursuits

➡️ A New Frontier: Alaska

A Career in Broadcasting 📻

📰 Pioneering Alaskan News

🌊 The 1964 Earthquake: A Defining Moment

🏆 Recognition and Transition

A Distinguished Political Career 🏛️

🗳️ From Broadcast to Legislature

⚖️ Championing Progressive Legislation

Personal Life & Relationships 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

💔 First Marriage and Challenges

🤝 Second Marriage and Later Years

Legacy & Enduring Influence ✨

📚 Archival Preservation

📖 A Story Retold

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Who Was Genie Chance?

A Multifaceted Pioneer

The Voice of Calm Amidst Chaos

A Legislative Trailblazer

Early Life & Formative Years

Roots in Texas

Academic Pursuits

A New Frontier: Alaska

A Career in Broadcasting

Pioneering Alaskan News

The 1964 Earthquake: A Defining Moment

Recognition and Transition

A Distinguished Political Career

From Broadcast to Legislature

Championing Progressive Legislation

Personal Life & Relationships

First Marriage and Challenges

Second Marriage and Later Years

Legacy & Enduring Influence

Archival Preservation

A Story Retold

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice